Gynecology - Surgery - Post Operative Scar Massage
Scar Massage after Abdominal Surgery
Begin belly massage as soon as possible after surgery. Stay at least 2-3 inches away from the scar until all scabs have fallen off naturally. The benefit is greatest when the skin is worked just below the pain threshold as firmly as possible. However, it is very important to start gently and progress slowly to deeper and stronger massage. You should never feel sharp stabbing pain. A strong pulling sensation or a light burning sensation is okay. We recommend 5-15 minutes per day. Some people find that after showering is a more comfortable time. Using the pads of your fingers, stick to the skin. Do not slide across the skin. Do not use oil or lotion. Begin with steps # 1-2. When the scab has fallen off and there is no seepage from the scar (at least 2 weeks), you may massage the scar directly (steps # 3-6).
Circles – Make small circles in both directions all over the abdomen 1-2 fingers deep. You may do this massage close to the scar after the scab has fallen off.
- Bowel Stimulation – Massage in circles with counter clockwise motion starting by the
right hip, going up towards the ribs on the right side, across the body and down the left hip. This encourages the correct movement of gas and feces and is especially helpful in the first few weeks to release gas bubbles.
- Desensitization – Use a rough wet towel to rub across the scar in all directions. Repeat
with a dry towel if tolerated. This will help to decrease the sensitivity of the scar and help you feel more at ease touching it.
- Push and Pull – Place two fingers directly on the scar and move it slowly straight up
toward ribs. When the skin stops moving, continue holding firm pressure on the scar for 1-2 minutes. This should be a strong pulling sensation, but should not cause sharp pain. Then push firmly down toward the pubic bone and hold again. Repeat to the left and to the right in a similar manner. You may notice one or two directions that feel especially “stuck”. Spend a little more time holding in those directions if possible, to free up the stuck tissue.
- Skin-Rolling – Pinch the skin on either side of the scar, lifting the skin up. Start at either
end and move forward and backward, rolling and raising the skin as you move. A free scar bulges upward. A stuck scar dimples inward. Try this 2-4 weeks after surgery.
- Plucking – Put your index finger on one side and thumb on the other side of the
scar. Attempt to pick up the scar, separating it from the underlying tissues. If you can get under the scar, move your fingers slightly from side to side for 1-2 minutes. Start at either end and work toward the center. If the skin slips out of your fingers, you may not be ready for this stage, but keep trying. Begin this 4-8 weeks after surgery.
Elizabeth Shelly, PT
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